§ Mrs. BallardTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will review the pensions of Ghurka soldiers who have served in the British Army. [7348]
§ Dr. ReidPensions paid to ex-British Army Gurkhas are regularly reviewed. Each year both new and existing pensions are increased in line with the rate of inflation in Nepal. This review, which is currently being undertaken, is effective from April each year. In addition to this, and in accordance with our responsibilities under the Tri-Partite Agreement 1947 which links the pensions paid to ex-British Army Gurkhas to pensions paid in the Indian Army, pensions paid to our Gurkhas are reviewed in the light of any changes that the Indian Army may make to ensure that equity of treatment is maintained. The results of the latest 10 year review undertaken by the Indian Government are expected to be announced later this year.